BIG EARS debuted in February 2009 in Knoxville, Tennessee with a line up that included Philip Glass & Wendy Sutter, Antony & the Johnsons, Jon Hassell, the Necks, Fennesz, Pauline Oliveros, Negativland, Michael Gira, Sparklehorse, Ned Rothenberg, Dan Deacon, Neil Hamburger, and others.
The mission of BIG EARS is to offer an exciting and dynamic platform of musical and artistic discovery by artists possessed of singular and unique visions that stand apart from the mainstream.
Response to the first BIG EARS was phenomenal from audiences and artists alike. Here’s a small sampling of what was said:
“It was a tremendous experience….It’s my impression that there’s a real cultural renaissance going on in the south…I look forward to coming back.” –Philip Glass
“…the best audience we’ve played for in America.” –Wendy Sutter
“You could say that Big Ears was for people who like hearing nuanced music in excellent theaters, in a small town with no hassle…at times, it was heaven.” –The New York Times
“…an inspiration…Artists shared advice. Fans shared gratitude. Collaborations abounded. Surprises happened.” –Pitchfork
“A phenomenal success. If next year is even half as eclectic and adventurous as the first Big Ears, it will be incredible before it even starts.” –Creative Loafing (Atlanta)
“There was something strange and somewhat magical about the atmosphere in downtown Knoxville this weekend.” –The Knoxville News-Sentinel